Construction Details:

THIS COSTUME. It doesn't look too complicated, but I think the way the garments are supposed to fit together and look makes it such a challenge. Because there are so many pieces, I'm breaking it down.

Leggings / Garters / Shorts - the leggings are basically thigh-high boot covers over a pair of pumps. I used fuschia spandex to make them, and they are custom-patterned. There are snaps at the top that attach the garters. The shorts are made out of the same fabric as the boot covers.

Bodice - the blue bodice is Casa satin, with piped detail, fully flat-lined in coutil with spiral steel boning and flat steel boning encased in the seams. The lace detail along the top edge was stiffened so it holds shape. The bodice laces up in the back and was basically constructed like a corset.

Bolero jacket - One of the more complex parts of the costume, mainly because those sleeves are crazy. And the collar. And the stupid shoulder caps. I had to heavily modify an existing pattern to get the right fit and silohuette for it. I used a feather boa for the trim on the sleeve edge, and made my own trim for the design on the sleeves.

Skirt - Designed to be a not quite full circle skirt with modifications to the bottom edge to be accurate to the shape and hemline of Harold's skirt. I used a lightweight fabric since I didn't want to weigh down the underskirt - shape and gravifity-defiance was key for this piece.

Underskirt - mini-tutu was made underneath the skirt so it keeps that bizarre shape. Experience with classical tutus really helped me figure this part out!

Wig - purchased and teased to look messy, like Harold's hairstyle.

Earrings - made out of air-drying clay, painted, and made fabulous with glitter seal.

Resin gems - the gems for the corset and garter were cast out of clear acrylic resin. And yes, there was more glitter for these pieces.

Personal Thoughts:

I started this costume in...2009 I think? Years later, I'm totally not happy with most of it, so it's all getting re-made before I finally debut it. It's really bad to procrastinate on a project, because over the years most cosplayers improve, and to look back on work done years prior but not yet complete, one may get very nit-picky about the workmanship. It's just not up to snuff anymore! But here's to hopefully a nicer final piece!

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